The city of Hoover will commission a study to help chart the future of one the area’s largest commercial centers, Mayor Frank Brocato said today.

Brocato delivered his State of the City message to the Hoover Chamber of Commerce this afternoon where he announced plans for the $200,000 market assessment study.

While the Galleria remains strong, Brocato said online retail has hurt malls around the nation and Hoover’s is no exception.

“But we see these challenges as opportunities for reinvention, and we are working closely with property owners to ensure its future success,” he told the group gathered at the Winfrey Hotel, which is located inside the Galleria.

“Whether it’s shopping for groceries, clothing, home décor, these days, you can get just about anything from the internet. And while the convenience is great, the reality is – it’s hurting malls throughout the country.”

The mayor stressed that the Galleria remains a thriving mall, but leaders realize that change must occur on the property to remain relevant.

Forming a plan in previous years was a challenge because the mall is owned by eight different entities. Now Brocato said the city has assembled each owner to participate in the study. The city and business partners will pay for the plan.

“They’re excited about doing the study to see what the future looks like for the Riverchase Galleria,” Brocato said later.

The mall opened in 1986 and grew to become Alabama’s largest retail destination. Major competition entered the market in 1997 with the opening of the Summit along U.S 280 in Birmingham.

The Galleria is home to the last Macy’s store in Alabama. The department store is shedding locations all around the country as Macy’s and other venerable companies struggle to survive in the age of internet competition.

“That study would evaluate various factors such as the potential for redevelopment, current market conditions and it would provide recommendations for revitalizing the property,” he said. “Fortunately, we’ve got the owners of the Galleria on board, and we are very hopeful this will provide some helpful insights in blazing a path forward.”

Brocato said Hoover several years ago began diversifying its offerings beyond large retail to include entertainment options that draw people to the city. Those visitors also patronize area hotels and restaurants, Brocato explained.

“Those are sort of internet proof,” he said, listing businesses that are immune from threat by e-commerce. “Those are the things that we are focusing on to continue to help build our retail economy in the city.”

Following his presentation, Brocato gave more insight into his political future. Answering a question from AL.com, Brocato said he would seek a third term in August.

Brocato has been involved in Hoover for more than 50 years when he became the city’s first paramedic in 1973. He retired from the fire department as chief of operations and fire marshal in 2015.

Brocato won his first term as mayor in 2016.